Tidikelt in Foreign Sources: Louis Voinot's Tidikelt as a Model

Abstract

Tidikelt is one of the three major regions of Adrar Province, alongside Touat and Gourara. It is distinguished by its ancient history, rich cultural heritage, and diverse social composition, in addition to its economic prosperity and commercial importance. Among the foreign scholars who significantly contributed to documenting the history of the region is the French researcher Louis Voinot, author of Le Tidikelt, who visited the area at the end of the nineteenth century.

This paper aims to present an analytical reading of Voinot's work, which is divided into three principal sections. The first examines the geographical characteristics of Tidikelt, including its geographical and astronomical location, climate, agriculture, and population. The second addresses the historical dimension by providing a concise overview of the history and origins of the principal settlements of Tidikelt, such as In Salah, Aoulef, Aqbli, In Ghar, and others, as well as the earliest tribes that settled in the region. It also discusses the first European attempts to explore Tidikelt. The third section is devoted to the customs and traditions of the region, including hospitality, marriage ceremonies, and the celebration of religious occasions. The book concludes with several valuable appendices.